Hurricane Helene Advisory Number 12
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL092024
400 AM CDT Thu Sep 26, 2024
Helene Strengthening: Catastrophic Winds and Storm Surge Expected to Hit the Northeastern Gulf Coast
Immediate Preparations to Protect Life and Property Are Urgently Needed
Summary of Information at 400 AM CDT (0900 UTC)
- Location: 24.2N 86.2W (About 350 miles southwest of Tampa, FL, and 385 miles south of Apalachicola, FL)
- Maximum Sustained Winds: 90 MPH (150 KM/H)
- Present Movement: North-Northeast at 12 MPH (19 KM/H)
- Minimum Central Pressure: 966 MB (28.53 inches)
Watches and Warnings in Effect
- Storm Surge Warning: Mexico Beach to Flamingo, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.
- Hurricane Warning: Anclote River to Mexico Beach.
- Hurricane Watch: Englewood to Anclote River, including Tampa Bay.
- Tropical Storm Warning: Florida Keys, Flamingo to Anclote River, west of Mexico Beach to Okaloosa/Walton County Line, Lake Okeechobee, parts of Cuba (Artemisa, Pinar del Rio, and Isle of Youth).
Key Risks
- Storm Surge: Life-threatening water levels are expected along coastal areas, including Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and the northeastern Gulf Coast, with surges of up to 20 feet in some regions.
- Winds: Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 60 miles from the center, with tropical-storm-force winds affecting areas up to 345 miles from the center.
- Rainfall: Heavy rainfall from Helene, with 6 to 12 inches expected over the southeastern U.S. and up to 18 inches in isolated areas, posing a significant risk of flash flooding and landslides.
- Tornadoes: The threat of tornadoes increases today, particularly across northern Florida, southeastern Georgia, and parts of the Carolinas.
Residents in affected areas should follow guidance from local emergency officials and promptly complete all preparations to safeguard lives and property.